Mindful I

I glance around with my one good mindful eye.

The other one blinded by years of disappointment and now inescapable fear.

I saw my own unhappiness reflected back at me from the despair on the faces

And in hesitation in the voices

Of those whom I love most.

I recognized my responsibility in this

And vowed to change my contribution.

I laughed more heartily again,

I drank less,

I listened more,

I loved more intentionally but less obviously,

And they were happier,

But I was not,

But I felt happier.

Mindful I

I glance around with my one good mindful eye.

The other one blinded by years of disappointment and now inescapable fear.

I saw my own unhappiness reflected back at me from the despair on the faces

And in hesitation in the voices

Of those whom I love most.

I recognized my responsibility in this

And vowed to change my contribution.

I laughed more heartily again,

I drank less,

I listened more,

I loved more intentionally but less obviously,

And they were happier,

But I was not,

But I felt happier.